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Burn Bans/Fire

Local firefighters travel to west Texas to help battle wildfires--
70 firefighters from across Texas gathered in the parking lot of Bucee’s in Katy to head west in an effort to battle intense wildfires. The wildfires have threatened homes and businesses in west Texas for the last few weeks. The fire departments plan on sending 30 trucks for at least 7 days, with an extended stay if needed.
KHOU11, Michelle Choi, May 2, 2018

Fire reignites at Texas City substation--
Firefighters in the Houston area fought to extinguish a fire at a Texas City substation owned by CenterPoint Energy. According to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the fire ignited due to the high temperature of a transformer. Firefighter will be remaining at the substation to make sure the transformer remains cool.
Houston Chronicle, Nick Powell and John D. Harden, May 9, 2018  

Unusual weather event created due to Texas wildfire--
In an area near Amarillo, a wildfire produced a rarely identified pyrocumulus cloud and thunderstorm. The storm was strong enough to produce one-inch hail, which lead the local National Weather Service to issue a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for areas that were ahead of the fire and moving storm.
WMC5, Nick Gunter, May 13, 2018

Texas Panhandle wildfire burns more than 69,000 acres--
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, 300 firefighters have worked to combat a fire that has burned more than 69,000 acres in the Texas Panhandle since last week. Dry conditions along with 90+ degree temperatures and gusty winds provoked the fire in grass and bush. The National Weather Service had reported on Friday that a smoke cloud from the fire initiated its own thunderstorm that produced damaging hail.
The Associated Press, Staff Writer, May 13, 2018

 

Drought

Monthly Change in Drought Monitor Classification

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No Drought in North Texas: Officials--
Heavy rain events in numerous parts of the state have lead to an alleviation of drought for some areas. The strong storms that moved through the north Texas on Thursday and Friday provided measurable rain in the region, decreasing drought by four percentage points overall for the state. The Texas Panhandle remained in extreme and exceptional drought however.
NBC DFW 5, Staff Writer, May 7, 2018

Storms eased Central Texas drought, but how long until lasting relief?--
The storms that passed through Central Texas the previous week were effective in relieving moderate drought conditions in the region due to the large amounts of rain. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, large areas of Travis and Williamson counties are only designated as abnormally dry, which is the lowest on the drought monitor scale.
Austin American-Statesman, Mary Huber, May 10, 2018

Climate Prediction Center: Texas Panhandle Reportedly out of La Nina Phase--
Officials at the Climate Prediction Center are reporting that the Texas Panhandle is now considered as in a neutral phase of La Nina through at least September. Previous climatological patterns being compared to current patterns suggest that near normal weather conditions should return soon during the Panhandle’s summer wet season. Climate experts predict there is a 50-50 chance that an El Nino pattern could set up this fall.
My High Plains, Karl Wehnhoener, May 10, 2018

 

Agriculture/Livestock 

Texas grape-growers in high spirits because of weather--
Experts at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension say that vineyard and winery owners are optimistic this year even after severe weather brought rough conditions to growing areas. Although there has been relatively no measurable rain since October, the vines have been said to be growing well under irrigation.
Abilene Reporter News, Adam Russell, May 4, 2018

Lack of rain and low temperature hinder warm-season crops--
According to the State of Texas Climatologist, some areas within Texas are experiencing an remarkable lack of rain, while others are observing lower-than-normal temperatures. The Panhandle region has received more rain in the last few weeks than previously observed since October which would be very beneficial to warm-season crops. Warm temperatures and evaporation in the upcoming season mean more precipitation will be needed to sustain prosperity for crops in the Panhandle and West Texas.
Waco Tribune-Herald, Adam Russell, May 5, 2018

Drought could prompt more Texas farmers to plain oilseed crops--
Oilseed crops such as sunflowers and canola are at a low price and are considered minor crops currently. With the extended significant drought, these crops may gain more popularity due to their drought and heat tolerance. Reportedly there is an oversupply of confectionary sunflower seeds, which may hurt the demand for planted acres in the near future.
Abilene Reporter News, Adam Russell, May 11, 2018

West Texas drought threatens crops, Lubbock economy--
Experts at the Texas Tech School of Agriculture expect there to be some chances of rain in the future for west Texas, though substantial showers would be needed to completely relieve the drought conditions. Some are suggesting that an extension of the intense drought would have significant impacts on the local economy. The current conditions are beginning a set up similar to that of the historic 2011 drought.
KCBD, Amanda Ruiz, May 14, 2018

Texas Crop and Weather Report - May 22, 2018--
Producers of corn and sorghum are preparing for a variant growing season this year ahead of what is said to be an uncertain export market and summer. Economists with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension suggests that a combination of high demand and lower corn acreage in the U.S. could drive prices for the stock higher than currently observed. Predictions of moisture and weather in the “Corn Belt” region suggest a positive forecast this growing season.
AgriLife Today, Adam Russell, May 22, 2018

Hail destroys crops almost ready for harvest in Electra--
A strong thunderstorm in East Texas extensively damaged crops last Saturday. Reports from the National Weather Service confirmed that golfball size hail was observed in the area. An agent with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has remarked that only about 20 percent of wheat crops from a field off 287 will be available for harvest as the hail broke the stems off the crops.
CBS6, Carly Smith, May 23, 2018

As Drought Spreads Across Texas, Ranchers Are Forced to Liquidate Their Stock--
Data from the U.S. Drought Monitor confirms that more than 40 percent of Texas is currently in a stage of drought. Especially drought plagued areas such as in the Panhandle have lead to difficulties for farmers and ranchers. With not enough land to graze cattle, a significant number of farmers will be forced to liquidate their resources and slaughter a majority of the cows.
KUT 90.5, Michael Marks, May 23, 2018

 

Significant Weather

Rainfall/Flooding

National Weather Service workshop aims to equip ‘flash flood alley’ residents--
The New Braunfels office of the National Weather Service held an emergency response training workshop for residents to learn how to stay safe when flash flooding occurs. In the U.S., flash flooding is the number one cause of storm-related deaths. The office wants to remind motorist that “turn around, don’t drown” is an important phrase for staying safe.
Spectrum News, Staff Writer, May 9, 2018

Wear Blue on Wednesday for Flood Awareness Week May 21 - 25--
May 21-25, 2018 has been proclaimed “Flood Awareness Week in Texas” by Governor Greg Abbott. Wednesday, May 23rd has been chosen as the “Wear Blue” day by the Texas Floodplain Management Association (TFMA) and the National Weather Service in San Angelo. The organizations hope that the message this week is to always be prepared for severe flooding events and be mindful of dangerous situation when flash flooding occurs.
San Angelo Live, Yantis Green, May 16, 2018

KLBK AM Weather May 18, 2018--
The Lubbock-area welcomed more rain in the last couple of days as notable drought persists in the region. Some isolated areas within the metro received hail, common with late-spring storms in the region. The coming days will mostly hot temperatures creep into the mid to upper 90s, winds in the teens, and low chances of isolated storms.
Everything Lubbock, Nick Kraynok, May 18, 2018

Severe storms bring large hail, areas of flooding around Lubbock--
A cluster of severe thunderstorms moved through West Texas on Saturday bringing heavy rain, large hail, and strong winds. The National Weather Service reports that some the hail was measured to be larger than golf-ball size. Storms began to develop during the afternoon hours on Saturday and became stronger as they moved towards Lubbock.
Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, A-J Media, May 19, 2018

Rainy Monday--
A passing frontal boundary in north-central Texas allowed for storms to develop further south in San Antonio and into East Texas. Many residents in the path of the storms are welcoming badly needed rain in the notably dry regions. One of the threats from these storms could be the potential for flooding, hail, and dangerous lighting. Daytime heating on Monday may lead to the build up of convection and more rain chances throughout the afternoon and evening.
KZTV, Staff Writer, May 20, 2018

Warm Weather

Humidity, heat return to South Texas; What’s ahead for week and Mother’s Day--
Heat and humidity will be prevalent this work week for the San Antonio area. Forecasters predict that humidity will start to really be felt beginning Wednesday and stay through most of the weekend. Favorable conditions for the development of unhealthy levels of ground-level ozone have lead the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue an Ozone Action Day for San Antonio on Monday.
KSAT 12, Justin Home, May 7, 2018

Judges approves settlement mandating air conditioning at hot Texas prison--
Several inmates at a Texas prison have won a years-long lawsuit over inadequate prison heat conditions. The defendants cited two dozen prisoners who died from heat stroke when temperatures exceeded 100 degrees. The lawsuit concludes that the Wallace Pack prison must include installation of air conditioning, with hopes to improve prisons statewide in the future.
The Texas Tribune, Jolie Mccullough, May 8, 2018

Firefighters battle Texas heat while fighting fires--
Firefighters in Texas not only battle the heat of fire flames, but also the intense Texas heat. Firefighters combat fires with nearly 35 pounds of gear compounded with extremely hot temperatures. According to a firefighter with the College Station Fire Department, most firefighters are able to ignore the heat with the high level of adrenaline when combating a fire.
KBTX, Amber Treybig, May 15, 2018

Extreme temperatures make an early appearance in North Texas before Memorial Day--
Many Texas residents can expect to see high temperatures around or above 100 degrees in the coming week. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas reported on record demands for power on May 16 and May 17. Some agencies and business are taking precautions to stay cool, including the Fort Worth Zoo that gives animals big blocks of ice with fruit inside when temperatures get notably high.
WFAA, Teresa Woodward, May 24, 2018

Texas Heat Hits Pets Even Harder: Best Practices for Keeping Furry Friends Cool--
Advocates for animal safety are urging pet owners to take extra precaution during warm spring and summer seasons. Some of the tips given include always maintaining fresh water and shelter and keeping a close watch for young and elderly pets that are very susceptible to heat-related illnesses. As reported by experts, it only takes 10 minutes for the interior of vehicles to reach temperatures above 100 degrees in 85-degree heat.
Spectrum News, Sarah Wolfgram, May 25, 2018

Summer-like heat wave breaking records---
Austin saw record-breaking temperatures Saturday afternoon as scorching conditions continue throughout the state. The previous record for May 26 in Austin was 96 degrees back in 2008, though Saturday saw the mercury rise to 99 degrees. Forecasters are predicting near record high temperatures continuing this week.
KVUE, Nathan Gogo, May 26, 2018

DPS Warns of Dangers of Leaving Children in Vehicles--
Officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety are continuing to remind residents to be mindful of children left in cars during this extensive heat summer. Every year, an unacceptable number of children die each year due to heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that temperatures inside a car can rise over 20 degrees in just 10 minutes even with the outside temperature is just 60 degrees.
Everything Lubbock, Staff Writer, May 26, 2018

How will this summer compare to the infamously hot 2011?--
Current weather patterns are suggesting that Texas may be in for a hot summer in 2018, where temperatures may top 100 degrees before May is over. Many are considering if the current trends are suggesting a similar set up as to 2011, where Austin saw 90 days of temperatures above 100 degrees. 2011 also saw the worst drought in Texas history with agricultural damage costs over $7 billion.
KVUE, Nathan Gogo, May 27, 2018

Why there’s a ‘possibility’ that this may be one of the hottest summers on record--
The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport recorded 71 100-degree days during 2011. Though the average first triple-digit day doesn’t occur until July 1, forecasters expect the first 100-degree day to occur before the end of May. The Climate Prediction Center is predicting above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation for the early parts of June.
Star-Telegram, Bill Hanna, May 28, 2018

Extreme Memorial Day heat keeps first responders busy--
First responders were very busy during Memorial Day weekend as many residents reported heat-related illnesses across North Texas. MedStar officials are reminding residents who decide to spend time outside to remain adequately hydrated. MedStar responded to 6 people significantly affected by the heat, with three of those patients being taken to the hospital.
FOX4, Staff Writer, May 28, 2018

Texas Weather Presents Challenge For Globe Life Park Grounds Crew--
The ongoing lack of rainfall in North Texas has made it difficult for grounds crews at the Globe Life Park to keep the field adequately green. Adding in the high summer temperatures that are expected this summer will make it even more difficult to maintain the green field into the fall. Maintaining adequate moisture at the Park will be vital to maintaining the manicured field, according to the director of the grounds.
CBS DFW, Jeff Jamison, May 31, 2018

 

Severe Weather

Storms Bring Tornadoes to Southern Plains, Moving Toward North Texas--
For North Texas, weather conditions at the start of May were relatively quiet. In the Central Plains, strong severe thunderstorms containing large hail and tornadic cells made their way through the region on Tuesday and Tuesday night. Threats for severe weather are expected to become more prevalent in the North Texas region beginning Wednesday afternoon and continue into Thursday.
NBC DFW5, Keisha Burns, May 2, 2018

Storms produce 55 mph winds, downed power lines and delay opening of Mayfest--
In Fort Worth, the opening day of the annual Mayfest was delayed due to inclement weather. A line of severe storms darkened the sky and brought discomforting weather conditions. Winds were measured to be 55 mph along with torrential rain showers which brought down numerous power lines and pushed the start time to 5 p.m.
Star-Telegram, Bill Hanna, May 3, 2018

Hundreds without power in Austin as storm roll east--
Heavy rain downpours made their way through Austin Friday causing major problems for residents. One of the biggest issues as the storms rolled through was a loss of power. Crews with Austin Energy responded to nearly 90 reported outages that affected upwards of 4,000 people at peak power loss.
Austin American-Statesman, Robert Villalpando and Mark D. Wilson, May 4, 2018

NWS offers safety tips for Central Texas storms--
The DFW National Weather Service Office has provided a few tips for Central Texas residents as we now enter thunderstorm and tornado season. One of the main suggestions is for seeking shelter during an intense storm in an interior room in a sturdy building. Another tip is understanding the difference between a watch and warning; watch means conditions are favorable for an event to occur, whereas as a warning means the event is occuring or imminent.
Killeen Daily Herald, Artie Phillips, May 6, 2018

Vivid lightning, wind damage accompany Tuesday storms--
Strong thunderstorms made their way through the eastern Hill Country on Tuesday bringing some rain and reports of wind damage in Lampasas, Burnet, and western Travis counties. Austin observed a spectacular light show produced by intense lightning within the storm cells as captured on cellphone video by residents. Rainfall totals over the last two days in the central Texas area have dumped 4-5 inches of rain.
KXAN, Jim Spencer, May 15, 2018

Chase describes Crosby County damage as more severe weather moves through South Plains--
Though residents in the South Plains were in dire need of rain, they got more than they bargained for when a strong thunderstorm brought destructive conditions. A severe weather system passing through the South Plains region brought torrential rain, large hail, and strong winds that lead to a major crash in Terry County. The Southcentral Storm Chasers conducted a storm survey after the event and found that hail was the biggest contributor to the destructive event.
Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, Jayme Lozano, May 17, 2018

DPS: Motorcycle rider injured in Terry Co. crash, likely due to weather--
In Terry County, Texas, first responders and the Department of Public Safety responded to a single motorcycle crash just north of US 62/82. Investigations by the DPS suggest that the crash was caused by the severe weather in the area. According to officials, a passing New Mexico Ambulance came upon the crash and was able to assist the motorist.
Everything Lubbock, Staff Writer, May 17, 2018

Williamson Co. Tornado Confirmed as EF1 with 90 MPH winds--
According to the National Weather Service, a tornado was confirmed to have touched down near Hero Way, just north of Leander. The National Weather Service reports that the tornado occurred around 8:20 causing roof and tree damage that was extensive in several areas. After surveying by the NWS, the tornado was classified as EF1, with wind speeds reaching upwards of 90 mph.
Spectrum News, Chelsey Trahan, May 20, 2018

Hail, thunderstorms hit Borderland Monday evening--
Strong thunderstorms pushed through the Trans-Pecos region on Monday leading the KTSM weather staff to issue a “Weather Authority Alert” early during the day that remained in effect through the evening. Numerous residents reported strong winds, pouring rains, and hail in El Paso, Socorro, and surrounding cities. The storms were strong enough to take out power for thousands of residents in East and West El Paso.
KTSM, Staff Writer, May 21, 2018

Saturday’s severe weather displaces, injuries local wildlife--
While many residents in the Southern Plains regions begin making repairs to homes and cars after recent severe weather events, some are considering the impact these storms have had on local wildlife. Over the last few days, employees at the South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center have been working extensively to care for the dozens of animals injured or found stranded. Quite a few animals were brought to the center for care, including some birds that were injured during large hail events.
Everything Lubbock, Leslie Adami, May 21, 2018

West El Paso flooded, hit hard by hailstorms--
Conditions turned from quiet to stormy in El Paso on Monday when strong storms hit especially hard in West Texas. Heavy rain downpours and large rain led to flooding and some rockslides in areas in and around Mesa Hills. Several residents believed a tornado had passed through the area when winds howled throughout the metroplex and even ripped a door off a martial arts studio.
KFOX14, Genevieve Curtis & Jessica Gonzalez, May 21, 2018

Richland Springs VFD: Town without water and power after storm, bottled water donations needed--
A very strong supercell significantly impacted areas of western San Saba County on Friday night. Residents spotted a tornado during the late evening hours leading to the National Weather Service to issue a tornado warning. Though the reported injuries were considered mild, many residents were left without power and there was extensive damage throughout the county, including at Richland Springs High School.
KWTX, Chris Sharock, May 26, 2018

Thunderstorm damages airplanes in Winnie--
A severe Southeast Texas thunderstorm damaged three airplanes at M and M Air Service in Winnie, Texas. Strong wind gusts up to 60 mph were reported by the National Weather Service. According to the vice president of the company, the hanger where the planes are kept was built to withstand winds up 126 mph, Saturday’s storm ripped down a wall and pushed off the roof.
Beaumont Enterprise, Liz Teitz, May 27, 2018

Why a ‘dangerous’ tornado warning was issued for San Saba County--
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service Office in San Angelo were forced to issue a Tornado Warning in San Saba County during the Memorial Day weekend as a severe thunderstorm pushed through the area. At the time of the warning, conditions were favorable for a particularly dangerous situation. Damage from the storm was evident at nearly every home in the area, caused by strong winds and baseball size hail that shattered windows and killed some livestock.
East Texas Matters, Steffi Lee, May 29, 2018

 

Other Climate Impacts

Economics/Technology

Officials in Harvey-Hit County Pick August for Bond Election--
County officials throughout southeast Texas have requested that an August special election be held for residents to vote on a $2.5 billion package that would finance flood-control projects. The election and projects are in response to damage sustained by Hurricane Harvey that cost the communities and the state an estimated $125 billion. Commissioners in Harris county voted unanimously to ask the Texas governor for permission to hold the election.
Associated Press, Juan A. Lozano, May 1, 2018

30 days to hurricane season. Do you have flood insurance?--
With just 30 days to the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season, meteorologist at KHOU are posing the question of “do residents have flood insurance” in case another major storm hits the southeast Texas region. Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 showed Houston residents that costly storms can occur even at the beginning of the season, so maintaining adequate insurance is very important. Residents, with the help of rental insurance providers, are able to purchase insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
KHOU, Blake Mathews, May 1, 2018

Texas grad students offer solutions for Red River flooding--
Students at the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service have put forth some possible solutions to improve localized flooding near the Red River. The graduate students conducting dozens of interviews with citizens, leaders in government and business entities for their research. It was put forth that flooding is expected within the Red River plain, though mitigation of risks can be completed by focusing on ecosystem management.
Shreveport Times, Sarah Crawford, May 2, 2018

Round up you rainwater--
During this remarkably extended dry season, water has been depleted from Texas aquifers at an alarming rate. Debates on the amount of water being admitted into the Rio Grande has been argued by Texas and New Mexico officials over the past few months. Some experts are predicting that the demand of water in Texas will exceed the necessary supply by the year 2030.
Abilene Reporter News, Audrey Gillespie, May 6, 2018

Texas Heat Could Increase Natural Gas Prices This Summer--
The upcoming summer will see scorching temperatures and near record-breaking electricity demand in Texas. Nearly 50% of the Texas power demand during hot summers is toward the air conditioner. Oil prices may may increase if constraints in the Permian basin temporarily slow gas output this summer.
Forbes, Jude Clemente, May 13, 2018

Local officials, Texas governor at odds over Harvey Help--
Conflicts within Texas communities and state executive power concerning funding use of the  $11 billion Hurricane Harvey relief has recently resurfaced. The tensions began when local officials wrote to the Texas governor asking for access to these funds. The mayor of Houston wrote to Governor Abbott requesting funds to be matched to federal grants for flood mitigation projects, while the governor asserted that applications for these projects had yet been submitted to the state.
Associated Press, Staff Writer, May 16, 2018

Roofing association warns about repair scams after hail damage--
It has been observed that unvetted roofing companies spring up in areas after significant hail events to scam residents for a quick buck. No license is required for roofing Texas which has led to a large number of these companies being seen in the state, with some “companies” doing poor jobs while some others take customer money and never complete the job. The Lubbock Area Roofing Contractors Association has advised residents to always get references of previous work, double if they have insurance, and take heed when being asked to pay upfront.
Everything Lubbock, Paige Pauroso, May 17, 2018

Auto body shops deal with influx following weekend hail--
Auto body shops are expected to be very busy this spring and summer season as the fix cars damaged during severe weather events. One body shop in Burkburnett, Texas has received nearly 50 claims and is expected to see more in the coming days and weeks as late-spring and summer storms continue throughout the region. The auto repair shops have responded most frequently to dents in vehicles caused by large hail.
CBS6, Zach Holder, May 22, 2018

Texas Holds Tax Holiday for Water-Efficient Products--
Residents in Texas can benefit by purchasing energy efficient products this weekend, including sprinkler systems and plants. An official with the Texas A&M University AgriLife Extension reports that the tax incentive has been going on for 3 years now and is a mean to conserve water and energy during this season of high consumption. AgriLife is pushing for residents to buy native plants that are adaptive to the state soil and climate conditions.
The Epoch Times, Marina Fatina, May 24, 2018

Recreation/Leisure/Athletics

Golfers weather all sorts of conditions at Volunteers of America LPGA Texas Classic--
LPGA golfers were forced to enduring intense and variable weather conditions during the Texas Classic this year. Players were hit with thunderstorms, strong winds, and blanketing during the three days it took to fully complete round one of competition. Fans and players were finally able to enjoy full day of competition on Saturday as the sun made its way through broken clouds and later a clear sky.
SportsDay, Bill Nichols, May 5, 2018

Best swimming pools in Central Texas to cool off during the summer heat--
The news staff at ABC13 have compiled a shortlist of the best places to cool off during the intense summer heat. In the Austin area, Barton Springs is considered the best destination with a spectacular environment and water temperatures at a comfortable 68-70 degrees. Hamilton pool and Lake Pflugerville Park are also stop contenders due to the availability of uncommon settings such as a circular pool ringerd by boulders and a large reservoir for kayaking.
ABC13, Staff Writer, May 27, 2018

Clear water at Galveston beaches? Here’s why--
Residents and tourists alike are noticing that the beaches in Galveston are notably clear following the holiday weekend. Officials with the city of Galveston are saying that the clear water is due to the ocean current changing from east to west. A meteorologist with the National Weather Service says that extratropical cyclone Alberto may have allowed for a large plume of clear water to be pushed toward the Gulf Coast.
Click2Houston, Staff Writer, May 30, 2018

 

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